Mary Frances (Mahaffey) Payne

Mary Frances “Mahaffey” Payne, affectionately known as “Sally,” was born on April 30, 1944, to Willie and Edith Marie Mahaffey in Jemison, Alabama.

She pursued her education at Daniel Payne College and Miles College, where she worked toward an English degree. Throughout her life, Mary Frances took great pride in caring for her home and family, finding joy in the everyday moments. She cherished summer afternoons spent sipping Pepsi under the tree, listening to her favorite music, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life in the company of her loved ones.

Mary Frances was an active and dedicated member of Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, where she participated in various church activities and remained deeply committed to her faith.

On December 16, 2024, Mary Frances peacefully transitioned, surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Edith Marie Mahaffey; husband, Johnnie L. Payne; brother, James Mahaffey; sisters, Celestine Mahaffey and Dorothy Mahaffey Campbell (Calvin Campbell); and stepchildren, Sandra Payne and Genevieve Payne.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Joycelyn Marie Payne Alston; grandchildren, Magan Payne, Jasmine Payne, and Taylor Alston; great-grandchildren, Mariah Love and Maliah Payne; sisters, Janice Mahaffey and Jean Mahaffey McCary; stepchildren, Jeanette Walker, Brenda Bell, Renaldo Payne, Michelle Payne Whitaker, and Monica Payne Charles; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and many other dear relatives and friends.

Mary Frances will be remembered for her strength, love for her family, and unwavering faith. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

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